Passenger Steamer and Salon Ship at Terrace Shore - Photo: © Sächsische Dampfschiffahrts GmbH & Co. Conti Elbschiffahrts KG
The interplay of culture and landscape along the banks of the Elbe counts as one of Dresden’s greatest treasures. No other city has been quite as successful in keeping such an extensive floodplain free of development. The vineyards that stretch from the Elbe palaces to Radebeul and Pillnitz, the Dresdner Heide and the Grosser Garten make this vibrant city one of the greenest in Europe. Amidst the historic setting, the green meadows on both banks of the Elbe provide an ideal opportunity for relaxation, while the Elbe cycle path provides wonderful opportunities for a bike ride or for inline skating.
The many castles and palaces, parks and gardens in the vicinity make Dresden the ideal starting point for hikes and excursions. With the oldest paddle steamer fleet in the world, you can sail upriver to the Elbe Sandstone Mountains (Saxony’s own climbing paradise) or to Pillnitz, where one of the oldest camellias in Europe is the crowning glory of the castle’s collection of exotic plants.
